Katelyn Necastro, LCSW, MA

Social Worker

Hometown

Lansing, IL

What attracted you to Arrupe College?

Prior to moving back to Chicago in June 2024, I worked for a mental health program in two large public High Schools in Brooklyn, NY. Our program aimed to support students at-risk of "falling through the cracks" due to challenges stemming from societal inequities such as poverty, community violence, immigration status, discrimination, etc. Arrupe's wrap-around support model acknowledges these barriers and provides relevant support to students in order to promote a more equitable educational landscape. I always wanted to work towards social justice in my hometown and I feel grateful to be a part of the Arrupe community!

What clubs and/or organizations are you involved in and what do you do?

As an Arrupe Social Worker, I provide mental health counseling to students throughout their 2 years in our program. I also participate in various campus events hosted by the Office of Student Services and/or Loyola Wellness Center that support the mental, emotional, and social wellbeing of our students and staff.

How did you get involved in higher education?

I expected to work with younger children aged 5-8 when I entered into my graduate program. However, I remained open to learning and took an internship at a High School where I realized my passion and efficacy working with teens. It's a pivotal time in development (and one that is so commonly misunderstood) so being someone that students could relate to and feel safe with to share their innermost thoughts and feelings was hugely rewarding. I realized this was my passion and focused on finding roles within schools to have direct access to youth who may be struggling and need support they can't otherwise get.

What is your favorite aspect about working at Arrupe College?

My favorite part of working at Arrupe is the warm and supportive atmosphere. There is a strong sense of community among students, faculty and staff that is singular and special here. As someone with a passion for social justice, working with individuals from disenfranchised communities is rewarding, yet demanding. I challenge myself to practice regular self-care and embody the messages I give to young people about prioritizing health and wellness.

Education

DePaul University (BA '10), New York University (MSW '17), Sarah Lawrence College (MA '17)